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Egyptian TV presenter sentenced to death on drug charges
CNN • • world
Key Points:
- Egyptian TV presenter Sarah Khalifa was sentenced to death by hanging alongside 11 others for allegedly participating in a drug trafficking network, according to state media al-Ahram.
- The defendants were accused of forming a criminal gang involved in importing substances used to manufacture narcotics and possessing unlicensed firearms; nine others received life sentences, and seven were acquitted.
- Prosecutors stated the network imported raw materials for synthetic drug production, seizing 750 kilograms of narcotics and relying on witness testimonies, conversations, and video evidence to build their case.
- Khalifa, who has a large social media following and runs a beauty clinic, reportedly pleaded for mercy during sentencing, denying involvement and claiming she was wronged.
- Egypt issued 492 death sentences in 2025, one of the highest rates globally, and executed 23 prisoners, according to Amnesty International.
